NPS/Kuliberda #FindYourPark at the Fire Island LighthouseWhether you love maritme history, climbing lighthouses, nature, or the beach, there is something for everyone at the Fire Island Lighthouse. The Fire Island Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse on Long Island.Long Island boasts more than 20 lighthouses, all different styles and sizes. The Montauk Point Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on Long Island, but it is not the tallest. At 168 feet, the Fire Island Lighthouse stands more than 50 feet above its east end counterpart. You can see the New York City skyline from the top of the tower.Climb to the top of the Fire Island Lighthouse and you won’t just be rewarded with bragging rights. On a clear day you can see the New York City skyline in the distance. Tower tours are offered daily until one hour before close (call 631-583-5901 for most up-to-date hours of operation). The $10 tour fee for adults goes to support the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society. 182 steps. But who’s counting?When you climb to the top of the Fire Island Lighthouse, the beautiful brickwork and stunning views are sure to distract you from counting each and every step. But it is good to know that there are 182 steps to the top where you can enjoy 360-degree views from the gallery platform. This is the second Fire Island Lighthouse.The first Fire Island Lighthouse was built on the westernmost end of Fire Island in 1826. It was 74 feet tall, constructed of Connecticut River blue stone, and its light could be seen for 10 nautical miles out to sea. The first lighthouse was removed and its materials were recycled into the present-day lighthouse and terrace, completed in 1858. The foundation of the original lighthouse can still be seen just west of the Fresnel Lens Building. It wasn’t always so black and white.The present-day Fire Island Lighthouse was originally a cream color. It didn’t get its distinctive black and white stripes, called “daymarks,” until 1892. The Fire Island Lighthouse is open year-round and accessible by car.The Fire Island Lighthouse is open year-round and is worth a visit in every season. You can take a ferry ride from Bay Shore to Kismet, then walk or take a water taxi to the lighthouse. Or you can drive to Robert Moses State Park, Parking Field #5 (parking fee in season). Park on the east end of the parking lot and follow the boardwalk about ¾-mile to the lighthouse. Discover Maritime HistoryFor decades, the first evidence of land for travelers crossing the vast Atlantic Ocean from Europe was the Fire Island Lighthouse. Completed in 1858 near the site of its 1826 predecessor, the current Fire Island Light is still a beacon attracting thousands of people each year. With a focal plane of 168 feet above the level of the sea, can be seen more than 20 miles away. Learn more about the lighthouse's history and how the National Park Service works to protect maritime heritage and lighthouses. The Fire Island Lighthouse is operated by the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society under a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service. The light, still owned by the United States Coast Guard, is now maintained and operated by the Society as a private aid to navigation. HoursOpen daily. Tower tour availability depends on volunteer presence. Please call 631-583-5901.
Contact InfoFire Island Lighthouse GPS CoordinatesLatitude, 40° 37' 53" North |
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Last updated: January 29, 2024